Randall backing Quins

Harlequins stand-in captain Chad Randall believes his side could rule the engage Super League if they continue to improve.

By Rachel Griffiths

Last Updated: 20/01/10 5:10pm

Harlequins stand-in captain Chad Randall believes his side could rule the engage Super League if they continue to improve on and off the field.

The London Club are looking to up attendances at the Stoop and have recently landed a major three-year partnership with leading interactive mobile entertainment and information services provider WIN plc, marking the biggest sponsorship deal in the team's history.

Season ticket sales are also increasing and Australian Randall, who is covering as captain for injured England international Rob Purdham, hopes to equal that success on the pitch.

Opportunity

"You can see this club one day, if it is all done right, being the biggest club in the Super League," said Randall.

"People love teams that are winning. It would be great to see us in round 22 this year playing Leeds and being in the top four. We had that opportunity last year but we did not perform.

"We need to be high-up in the competition for consecutive years. We can't just go for half a season and expect them (supporters) to keep coming back. We have got to make a name for ourselves and pump this club up."

Randall, who arrived at the Stoop from Manly Sea Eagles in 2006, achieved the remarkable feat of making his 150th consecutive appearance for the club last season.

The Australian is thrilled to be appointed temporary captain but admits the loss of Purdham, who is ruled out for approximately 12 weeks, will come as a blow to the team.

"A guy like Rob is instrumental in some of the things he does. We are all going to have to chip in and do our bit," said Randall.

"It is a great honour to be awarded the captaincy and I'm looking forward to leading the boys in Purdham's absence."

Successful

Quins will host Wakefield Wildcats in their opening Super League encounter on January 30, and head coach Brian McDermott is hoping his side will prove themselves to be successful even in the absence of Purdham.

"Now Rob is injured it is an ideal time for us to prove that we don't need just one person," said McDermott.

"We have got some forwards in the squad who are just itching to play with the ball and use it a bit more than we did last year.

"One of goals is to make the grand final, that's what I said last year, and it is the same this year. That is what we are here for."